Russian drone struck Chernobyl reactor shell, but radiation levels normal, Zelenskyy says

Key Takeaways:

• Russian Drone Strikes Chernobyl: A Russian drone with a high-explosive warhead hit the protective shell of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
• Radiation Levels Unchanged: Officials confirm that radiation levels have not increased following the attack.
• Damage to Protective Structure: The drone strike damaged the confinement structure of the plant.
• Incident Occurred Overnight: The attack took place during the night in Ukraine’s Kyiv region.
• Official Confirmation: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reported the incident on Friday.

Russian Drone Targets Chernobyl’s Protective Shell

A Russian drone equipped with a high-explosive warhead struck the protective confinement shell of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in the Kyiv region during the night, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Friday. The incident raised immediate concerns due to the notorious history of Chernobyl, but officials were quick to address the potential risks.

Attack During the Night

The unmanned aerial vehicle hit the structure under the cover of darkness, causing damage to the protective shell designed to contain radioactive materials. The drone strike marks a significant escalation, targeting one of the most sensitive sites in Ukraine.

Radiation Levels Remain Normal

“Radiation levels have not increased,” Zelenskyy assured, a sentiment echoed by the U.N. atomic agency. The confirmation that radiation levels remain stable has provided a measure of relief amid fears of potential nuclear contamination.

Damage to the Confinement Structure

While the attack damaged the protective confinement shell, details about the extent of the destruction remain limited. The confinement structure, crucial for containing residual radioactive materials from the 1986 disaster, is a critical component of the site’s safety mechanisms.

Official Statements and Reactions

Ukrainian authorities are assessing the situation to determine the necessary repairs and preventive measures. The international community watches closely, given the possible implications for environmental and public health.

Continued Vigilance Required

The drone strike on Chernobyl underscores the ongoing tensions and the potential for critical infrastructure to become targets. Officials emphasize the importance of maintaining vigilance to protect such sites from future attacks.